A
fixed brace can be used to straighten crooked
teeth.
Will it be painful?
It is likely to be sore for about 3 - 5 days each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache may help (please read the instructions on the packet). If the brace rubs your lips or cheeks, you will be given some wax to help with this.
Can I remove the brace?
The brace you are now wearing is fixed to the teeth for the whole of your treatment. You should not try to remove it, as you may damage you teeth and the treatment will not work.
Can I eat normally?
Yes you should be able to eat normally. However, for your orthodontic treatment to work well and in the shortest possible time it is important you take care of your teeth and brace. In order to prevent damage to both, you should:
- Avoid eating toffees, boiled sweets, sugared chewing gum, chocolate bars, etc.
- Avoid drinking fizzy drinks (including diet drinks) and excessive amounts of fruit juice.
- Take care eating hard foods which might damage the brace such as crunchy apples, crusty bread, etc. Cut them up first.
What about toothbrushing & flossing?
If teeth are brushed correctly you need only brush your teeth twice a day, first
thing in the morning and last thing at night. Remember, toothbrushing and
tooth paste can be very abrasive and it is possible to over-do things. After
meals, the best thing to do is rinse out with water or chew sugar-free gum.
Conventional flossing is not possible, but there is such a thing as ‘super-floss’ which
can be threaded directly between the teeth, under the arch wire. You will
probably also be advised to use a fluoride mouthwash last thing at night,
after tooth-brushing, to further protect the teeth. Failure to keep your
teeth and brace clean will lead to permanent scarring of your teeth.
How long will treatment take?
It usually takes 14 - 18 months but will vary according to how severe your case is. Failed and cancelled appointments or repeated breakages of the brace will add to the overall treatment time.
Will I need to wear anything in addition to the fixed brace?
It may be necessary for you at some stage during the treatment, to wear headgear and/or elastics. Headgear is usually worn in the evenings and at night. Elastics are worn inside the mouth all the time, including mealtimes.
Will I need to wear another brace once my treatment has finished?
Yes. Once the active phase of your treatment is complete, you must wear a retainer. This may be removable or fixed behind your front teeth. To be guaranteed of perfectly straight teeth for life, you will need to wear retainers for life.
How often will I need an appointment?
This varies according to what phase of treatment you are in. Usually between 6-10 weeks
Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important you still have check-ups with your regular dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay.
What do I do if I play contact sports?
It is recommended you wear a gumshield. This will also be the case if you enjoy riding a bicycle, roller-skating, or skateboarding. You will be advised about this.
What if I play a musical instrument?
If you play a wind instrument, you may find some initial difficulty forming your lips. In my experience, this is only temporary and can be easily adapted to.
What do I do if my brace breaks?
Ring up for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Do not wait for your next routine appointment as the breakage may slow your treatment, or may result in damage to your teeth. If you repeatedly break your brace treatment may be stopped.
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